Chikungunya.

Chikungunya.

Everyone is saying it these days. I only wish it was some new lingo that all the cool kids are using. It is, however, a topic of conversation for everyone.

This new mosquito born virus is rampantly making its way around Haiti. If you dont already have it, you know someone who does. It is rainy season here which means a lot more standing water and more mosquitos!

Unfortunately I was one of them. Fortunately, I had mild case compared to many.

Fever. Sever join point. rash.

I was out of commission for about 3-4 days. I have heard of others who have been out for up to 2 weeks. There is no medication or vaccination for this. All you can do is rest, stay hydrated and take pain medication and let it runs it course.

I have had the luxury of being able to do all of those things. I say luxury because the reality is most Haitian don’t have easy access to most of those things.

I have the ability to rest without worry about who where my next meal will come from. The reality is for most Haitians, staying at home means you aren’t out working. Not working means no income which probably means no food.

I have the ability to lay in my relatively comfortable bed with a fan to help keep me cool. The reality is many Haitians have their entire family living in a house not much bigger the the room I sleep in, without electricity.

I have the ability to drink plenty of clean water. The reality is most Haitians will have to walk to the local well to get water.

Pray for Haiti. Pray that those affected will heal quickly.